The synthesis and detailed characterization of a few samples of the compound Rb x Mn[Fe(CN) 6 ] y ‚ zH 2 O are described. The composition of the materials significantly depends on the applied preparative conditions. Analysis of spectroscopic results (FTIR, Raman, 57 Fe Mössbauer, XPS) and X-ray powderdiffraction data yielded a further assessment of the difference in structural features in terms of the amount of Fe(CN) 6 vacancies and the associated number of water molecules. The characteristic individual magnetic behavior, as well as the metal-to-metal charge-transfer capabilities of the various samples, could be related to significant changes within the structures that appear to be associated with the synthetic method used.

Nanomaterials as solid supports can improve the efficiency of immobilized enzymes by reducing diffusional limitation as well as by increasing the surface area per mass unit and therefore improving enzyme loading. In this work, -glucosidase from almonds was immobilized on two smectite nanoclays. The resulting hybrid biocatalysts were characterized by a combination of powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermal analysis, and infrared spectroscopy. Biochemical studies showed an improved thermostability of the immobilized enzyme as well as enhanced performance at higher temperatures and in a wider pH range.